Name: Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 1 lb beef shank or short ribs, bone-in; 6 cups water; 3 medium beets, peeled and grated; 1 large carrot, peeled and grated; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1/4 head green cabbage, shredded; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons white vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 to 2 bay leaves; Fresh dill and sour cream for serving

Few dishes capture the soul of a nation like borscht does for Ukraine. This vibrant beet soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and bold flavor. With its deep crimson hue and hearty combination of vegetables, beef, and a touch of sour cream, authentic Ukrainian borscht is a dish that warms from the inside out.

Perfect for cold weather or any time you crave a soulful bowl of goodness, this borscht recipe comes from generations of home cooks who knew that patience, good ingredients, and love are the key to deep, complex flavor. It’s just as lovely as a next-day leftover and even freezes beautifully.

What Kind of Beets Should I Use for Borscht?

Look for fresh, firm red beets with smooth skin. The color and natural sweetness of red beets are essential to creating that signature rich color and earthy-sweet taste in traditional borscht. If you find golden or striped varieties, they can be used, but note they will alter the classic flavor and appearance.

Ingredients for the Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

1 lb beef shank or short ribs, bone-in
6 cups water (plus more as needed)
3 medium beets, peeled and grated
1 large carrot, peeled and grated
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/4 head green cabbage, shredded
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Bay leaf (1-2)
Fresh dill and sour cream for serving

How To Make the Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Step 1: Make the Broth

Place the beef in a large pot with water and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the broth is rich. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, then add the beets and carrots. Stir in tomato paste, vinegar, and sugar. Cook for 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and the flavors meld.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Remove the beef from the broth, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return to the pot. Add potatoes and simmer until tender. Add cabbage and the sautéed beet mixture. Cook everything together for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for at least 20 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.

How to Serve and Store Borscht Soup

Serve borscht hot with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Pair with a slice of rye bread or garlic pampushky for the full Ukrainian experience. Borscht gets even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead soup. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead. Add kidney beans or mushrooms for extra heartiness.

What can I use instead of tomato paste?

Crushed tomatoes or even a bit of ketchup can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked beets?

Yes, but the flavor won’t be as deep. Fresh beets provide more earthy sweetness and a richer color.

Do I have to use vinegar?

Vinegar balances the sweetness of the beets. If you prefer, you can substitute with lemon juice.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but sauté the vegetables first before adding them to the cooker for best flavor.

Want More Soup Ideas with Hearty Comfort?

If you loved this Ukrainian borscht, you might also enjoy these warming bowls:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts — rich and flavorful for a cozy dinner.
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta — a bowl of creamy comfort.
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole — perfect if you’re craving spice and satisfaction.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo — for a bold twist on classic soup night.

And don’t forget to check out my Pinterest board for daily recipes and delicious inspiration!

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can revisit it any time.

I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you stick to tradition or add your own twist? Maybe a touch of smoked paprika or some white beans?

Drop a comment below or tag me on social if you share it. Let’s keep the comfort cooking going!

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This hearty Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup blends beets, cabbage, and beef into a rich, comforting dish steeped in tradition. Its deep color and sweet-sour balance make it a nourishing staple perfect for cold days or make-ahead meals.

Instructions

1. Place the beef in a large pot with water and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the broth is rich. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

2. In a separate skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, then add the beets and carrots. Stir in tomato paste, vinegar, and sugar. Cook for 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and the flavors meld.

3. Remove the beef from the broth, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return to the pot. Add potatoes and simmer until tender. Add cabbage and the sautéed beet mixture. Cook everything together for 15-20 minutes.

4. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for at least 20 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.